Is Menards’ Big Card Right for You?

Since its launch in 1958, Menards’ name has become synonymous with home improvement in the Midwest. The chain has more than 280 locations in 14 states, including Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan and Minnesota, and it remains family owned. The store’s popularity may explain why Menards offers its own credit card, Menards Big Card, issued by Capital One. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at what it means to apply for a Menards Big Card account.

How to Decide on a Menards Big Card

If you’re considering a credit card, be sure to do some research beforehand to get a sense of what cards are out there. Another good idea: Reviewing your credit scores to make sure you qualify. (You can view two of your credit scores for free on Credit.com.) While doing your homework, try to keep your overall finances and spending habits in mind.

There are plenty of credit cards to choose from, so it helps to know their differences. Secured credit cards require a cash deposit that acts as a credit line and are ideal for trying to rebuild your credit. If your credit is solid, a rewards card can help you save on everyday items like groceries, retail and gas. If you’re not much of a spender but like to travel often, travel credit cards can shower you with savings on things like hotels, airfare and car rentals.

Store credit cards, like Menards Big Card, are usually best for loyal customers. When using these cards, try not to lose your rewards to high interest or take on too much debt, as these cards often carry high annual percentage rates, or APRs. We recommend paying your balance in full every month to avoid any issues.

What Is the Menards Big Card?

Here’s a glimpse of what Menards Big Card has to offer. Be sure to check the card agreement for full details.

Card Highlights: Members can choose between a 2% rebate on Menards purchases, six-month 0% financing on purchases over $299, or 48-month 3.99% financing on purchases over $1,500. (After those promotional financing offers expire, the variable APR will be 26.24%.) Cardmembers also receive a 2% rebate on purchases at Speedway, Holiday, Kwik Trip and Kwik Star stores. They can also get a 1% rebate on select purchases, including products from Crest, Clorox and Cascade.

Rewards Details: Rebates are issued four times a year with a $5 minimum and no cap. Rebates are sent in the form of merchandise certificates valid only at Menards stores, and rebates under $5 will roll over into the next rebate mailing until you reach the $5 minimum.

Annual Fee: None

APR: Variable 26.24%

A steep APR makes Menards Big Card most ideal for Menards shoppers who aren’t prone to carrying balances. Regular shoppers will want to consider how often they visit the retailer and decide if they want the flexibility of being able to shop or redeem rewards wherever they want. If you’re a loyal Menards shopper, this card can be useful, especially if you’re tackling major home projects that require special financing. Just be sure to make your payments on time so you don’t wind up in debt or lose your rebates to high interest. But if you’re looking for unlimited cash back, you’ll want a card that has a little more flexibility. That’s why we’ve picked an alternative that may better suit you.

Earn a $150 Bonus after you spend $500 on purchases in your first 3 months from account opening

Earn 5% cash back on up to $1,500 in combined purchases in bonus categories each quarter you activate

Enjoy new 5% categories each quarter

Unlimited 1% cash back on all other purchases – it's automatic

0% Intro APR for 15 months from account opening on purchases and balance transfers, then a variable APR of 16.24-24.99%. Balance transfer fee is 5% of the amount transferred, $5 minimum

No minimum to redeem for cash back

Cash Back rewards do not expire as long as your account is open

No annual fee

Card Details +

Why We Picked It: The Chase Freedom gives you 1% cash back on all purchases. Each quarter, there also are revolving categories that you activate where you can earn 5% on purchases up to $1,500. After you reach the $1,500 cap, you continue to earn 1% cash back on all purchases. You can also shop online with Chase Ultimate Rewards in order to earn extra cash back from certain retailers. If you’re looking at a home improvement project, you can shop online through Chase Ultimate Rewards and get 2% extra cash back at Home Depot and 1% extra cash back at Lowe’s. Plus, if you’re looking to finance a large purchase, Chase Freedom offers an APR of 0% for 15 months on purchases.

At publishing time, the Chase Freedom Unlimited credit card is offered through Credit.com product pages, and Credit.com is compensated if our users apply and ultimately sign up for this card. However, this relationship does not result in any preferential editorial treatment. This content is not provided by the card issuer(s). Any opinions expressed are those of Credit.com alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by the issuer(s).

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